Springboard is a yearly pioneering programme designed to support writers, directors and producers to continue and develop their careers after producing a first feature. 

Over 60% of BIFA longlisted filmmakers do not go on to make a second film and Springboard has been designed in response to a direct need: support for filmmakers beyond first feature success.

Any filmmaker longlisted in Debut Director, Debut Screenwriter, Breakthrough Producer or the Discovery Award categories are invited to join the programme which runs from October to March. Through a variety of workshops, seminars and networking sessions we supply strategic guidance and hard skills training as well as building a mutually supportive community for talent. 

In 2021/22 we will also be opening Springboard to non-longlisted filmmakers to offer the opportunity and support more widely. Applications will open in early September 2021 ahead of sessions beginning in October.

Sessions in previous years have come from Netflix, Curzon, MUBI, BFI and Creativity Capital and covered topics including financing, sales, distribution, legals, company development and career progression and run alongside networking and skill sharing events. The 2020/21 programme will offer a similar calibre of guests and take a hybrid approach to offer the opportunity UK wide but with some in-person events. 

The 2020/21 programme was funded by National Lottery funds awarded to ScreenSkills by the British Film Institute as part of the Future Film Skills strategy and Netflix. The programme is distinctive in its offering, providing a unique space for filmmakers to meet with other talent at a similar moment in their careers, who are facing similar challenges, and at a similar level of recognition.